A subtropical pair of residential towers are in planning for a key South Brisbane site neighbouring the iconic Expo ’88 Skyneedle, with new documents revealing a vertically layered vision designed to respond to the precinct’s evolving high-density character.

The proposal has been lodged by&nbsp;Darveniza Group, which is also is behind the 400-apartment Station Quarter precinct in Alderley.

Darveniza Group, led by Jane Darveniza, the Brisbane-based investor and Queensland rich-lister and widow of the late property magnate Bojan Darveniza, is seeking approval for a mixed-use project encompassing 204 apartments, ground-level retail, food and drink tenancies, and office space across two architecturally integrated towers at 37–39 Manning Street.

Occupying an 1,822 sqm site, the proposed towers would rise above a sculptural podium base, with a recessed landscaped centre, rooftop communal areas, and a total of 220 car parks and 256 bicycle bays. The apartment mix spans one- to five-bedroom dwellings, with a design emphasis on generous balconies, cross-ventilation, and climate-responsive materials.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c1f501-2afd-440b-af49-67c257123ea7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20podium.png?VersionId=KFlksfWzmDRD.VIYxd_1q3VAel.nN3TH" />

“The development is conceived as two slender twin buildings that meet at a lushly landscaped central recess,” the Finegrain design report states. “The façade is highly articulated with the plan form stepping back and forth to reduce visual bulk and maximise internal occupants’ access to natural light and air”.

A hallmark of the proposal is its integration of greenery, both visually and functionally. Around 77 per cent of the site’s green plot ratio is delivered through vertical planting spines, a green podium wall, and rooftop amenity. Ground-level deep planting and landscaped communal zones aim to create a shaded, walkable interface along Manning Street.

“The stepped plan form introduces variation in balcony setbacks and enclosed apartment areas, enriching both the façade expression and the resident experience,” the design team notes. “At ground and podium levels, this stepping also enhances permeability, maximising pedestrian view lines to the neighbouring Skyneedle and reinforcing a strong sense of local identity”.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3f26dfc-6b93-465c-9ffb-0a2530372a23" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20site.png?VersionId=JflvKdqDxcaHTFbb9HL5TwoiRgeQ2LqA" />

The site directly adjoins the heritage-listed Skyneedle at 35 Manning Street, an enduring legacy of World Expo ’88. The accompanying heritage impact report by Pendergast Architects contends that the proposal has been carefully conceived to protect the cultural significance and landmark visibility of the structure.

“The design provides setbacks, tower separation and podium articulation to maintain the visibility and landmark role of the adjoining Skyneedle,” the report states. “The significance of the Skyneedle lies principally in its landmark visibility and cultural symbolism, rather than in detailed fabric or architectural setting”.

The proposal sits within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct, under Brisbane’s TLPI 02/2023, where revised planning controls support high-density, mixed-use development integrated with subtropical design and increased public realm contributions.

Finegrain’s design reflects this intent, drawing cues from the site's adjacency to Musgrave Park, the subtropical landscape of South Brisbane, and cultural landmarks such as QPAC and South Bank.

Joel Robinson

Twin green towers proposed for Manning Street, South Brisbane site beside Skyneedle

A first-of-its-kind culinary precinct is coming to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, inspired by global street-food flavours and best-in-class restaurants and entertainment.

Deicorp’s emerging mid-city precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a>, will become the go-to precinct within the wider Melrose Park community, and at its heart, a first-of-its-kind culinary precinct that brings the buzz of Asia’s most iconic food streets to life.

Spanning more than 4,700 sqm, Melrose Central street food precinct is inspired by the energy and vibrant flavours of street-food neighbourhoods from Hong Kong and Tokyo to Seoul and Singapore.

This new destination will be over three times the size of existing offerings like Burwood Chinatown or Westfield Chatswood’s Hawker Lane, positioning Melrose Central as a must-visit dining hub for all of Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289878]

Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, this street food concept blurs the lines between culinary theatre, art, and entertainment, offering an immersive experience. Neon-lit laneways thread between open kitchens and live grill stations, while murals, interactive displays, and light installations will bring the precinct to life, trading until late, a first for the area.

“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail at Deicorp.

“By curating the very best tenants from across Australia, we’re creating a fit-for-purpose town centre for 2025 and beyond. It’s something that people truly haven’t seen before."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=352610]

Melrose Central is far more than a food precinct. Spanning 30,000 sqm across four levels, the shopping centre will be home to approximately 100 retailers, providing a total lifestyle offering from morning until late evening.

Fresh food offerings span a brand new Coles Supermarket, Local Grocer, Korean Supermarket, Bakery and boutique fresh food, as well as a Dan Murphy's, while health needs are covered from a pharmacy, medical centre and allied health. Fitness and wellbeing take centre stage from a dedicated wellbeing hub that includes pilates, recovery, Infrared saunas and a gym, to name a few.

Variety stores will feature throughout, as well as personal care offerings from nail salons to hairdressers, as well as a dedicated early-learning centre on level 1.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289888]

Situated above the retail precinct will be 495 Turner Studio-designed apartments that open onto 6,000 sqm of lush podium gardens and rooftop terraces.

Located just six kilometres east of Parramatta’s CBD and 15km from Sydney CBD, Melrose Central forms the retail and lifestyle heart of Melrose Park, an urban-renewal precinct that is set to deliver more than 11,000 homes, 22,000 new residents, and 50,000 sqm of park and open space.

A dedicated stop on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will arrive at the precinct’s Hope Street entrance, and the forthcoming Parramatta Gateway Bridge will link directly to Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Supported by a 10-minute drive, this growing catchment of 200,000 people, which is projected to grow to 279,000 by 2026, and an average household income above the Greater Sydney average, Melrose Central embodies Deicorp’s vision for transport-oriented, community-focused placemaking.&nbsp;

Melrose Central street food precinct and the wider Melrose Central retail town centre are both slated to open in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134220]

Melrose Central: First-of-its-kind culinary precinct coming to Sydney’s West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> has unveiled the fifth and final stage of its $1 billion Norwest community, The Orchards.

The final stage, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/zeste-at-the-orchards-norwest-104-fairway-drive-norwest-nsw-2153">Zeste</a>, will deliver 209 apartments across two distinctive buildings, Essence and Eden. The 135 apartments in Essence will be the first to be released to the market, which will bring to an end the decade-long vision to create a&nbsp;neighbourhood defined by design excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351878]

David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House Australia said, Zeste's oversized living spaces and diverse apartment mix, which includes the introduction of&nbsp;Breezeway Sky Homes for the first time, deliver a unique lifestyle offering.

Early purchasers will benefit from exclusive VIP pricing as well as the choice of one premium upgrade, which Lee says is a "thank you" for their commitment to the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351876]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, Zeste embodies Sekisui House’s global design philosophy of creating harmony between people, homes and nature. Principal Ben Pomroy explained that Zeste is about living within the landscape.

“With two large courtyards, the lagoon pool precinct for the wider community and a central courtyard with pavilion exclusively for Zeste residents, the architecture frames an experience of living in a park," Pomroy said.

“Over 50 per cent of the site is landscaped, ensuring a deep connection to nature at every stage of daily life. The buildings are designed as a collection of smaller, finer-grain forms, with over 85% of apartments enjoying dual aspects.

“The focus on natural ventilation, generous layouts and communal interaction creates a residential environment that is both sustainable and socially connected.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351886]

Natalie Shalala, a member of Rothelowman’s interiors team said they reimagined the former site’s Orchard homestead with a contemporary twist. &nbsp;

“The design draws on the nostalgia of the past orchard – timber floors, the warmth of a fireplace, the rituals of the homestead and reinvents them for modern apartment living,"&nbsp;Shalala said.

“We have created two tonal palettes, one with pale honey undertones and another with a soft blush inspired by nectar. A highlight feature is the cathedral glass light box, a bespoke design element that re-interprets the classic lantern. It is both beautiful and functional, tying kitchen and bathroom spaces together in a way that feels entirely unique."

Shalala said the&nbsp;day-to-day liveability has been carefully considered, with abundant storage solutions, butler’s pantries, bike storage and joinery designed to simplify routines and enhance comfort.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=352090]

Apartments in Zeste start from $715,000 for one-bedrooms and extend through to expansive three-bedroom Sky Homes priced from $2.25 million. Floorplans range from 59 sqm to 144sqm.

The mix in Essence comprises 41 one-bedroom, seven one-bedroom + Max space, 39 two-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes (24 of which include additional Max spaces), and eight three-bedroom residences.&nbsp;

Max spaces are integrated into select residences, offering a flexible room that can be tailored to individual needs, ideal as a home office, children’s play area, or additional storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351881]

Zeste continues Sekisui House Australia’s partnership with Altogether Group, providing sustainable water, power and data services to residents. Passive design strategies include cross-ventilation, deep landscaping and water features that encourage evaporative cooling, aligning with The Orchards long-term environmental goals.&nbsp;

Construction is set to commence on the Zeste buildings in early 2026, with completion anticipated in late 2027 to early 2028.&nbsp;

More than 850 apartments have been sold across the masterplan, contributing to The Orchards community of 1,300 apartments when complete.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150510]

Sekisui House Australia launches Zeste, the final stage of its $1 billion Norwest masterplan

A significant addition to the Bella Vista Station Precinct is in the pipeline, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/landen-property">Landen</a> formally lodging a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-memorial-avenue-bella-vista-40-memorial-avenue-nsw-2153">new apartment community on Memorial Avenue</a>.

Positioned beside the Elizabeth Macarthur Creek corridor, the project is among the first major transit-oriented residential proposals within the Metro precinct.

The masterplan, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Architects</a>,&nbsp;outlines a four-stage delivery, comprising four buildings between four and fifteen storeys, and includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited selection of four-bedroom penthouses and terraces.

The project places a strong emphasis on housing diversity and liveability, with apartment sizes ranging from 50 to 180 sqm. The first stage will deliver 213 dwellings, followed by 231 in the second stage. Construction is expected to commence in 2026, pending approvals.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb3d84b1-d2df-4e26-915a-31b27faf9b1a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/View02_01-scaled.jpg?VersionId=Gb0AUtZ3VXsLxrqUaw_AwT_vcBwQ_FJu" />

As the first transit-oriented development (TOD) in the precinct, Landen’s Bella Vista community has been designed to align closely with the surrounding Metro infrastructure. The proposal integrates new pedestrian and cycling paths, a new bridge over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek, and direct access to Bella Vista Metro Station.

Lush communal amenities are also central to the design. 'The Grove' and the 'Garden Link' will create landscaped community areas that reflect the area's agricultural heritage and provide direct access to the creekside.&nbsp;

The ‘Garden Patio’ is conceived as a multi-use indoor-outdoor facility offering a gym, study nooks, and communal lounge spaces.&nbsp;Rooftop terraces across the buildings will offer views to the Blue Mountains and Parramatta skyline.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="778da409-d5cf-4e7d-9ba9-0c36990bf0b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/landen-bella-property-image.jpg?VersionId=ukPpmVcHF71xRc7U3MUT5rtGwOsntMMz" />

Landen’s Head of Property, Shane Harding, said the proposal highlights the developer’s precinct-scale ambition.

“As the first TOD proposal in Bella Vista, it highlights Landen’s ability to pioneer precinct-scale projects, integrate housing with infrastructure, and deliver outcomes that align with government priorities,” Harding told the Daily Telegraph.

The project arrives at a time of rapid growth in Western Sydney, with Bella Vista alone forecast to more than double in population by 2046. The development’s location, between the Bella Vista and Kellyville Metro stations, positions it as a connected lifestyle hub for families, professionals and downsizers seeking access to transport, schools, and employment centres.

Pending approval, the development is slated for completion in 2028.

Landen plans 444-apartment community in Bella Vista Metro zone

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equicentia">Equicentia</a>, together with joint venture partners Wingala Capital and Monark Property Partners, has become the first in Manly to secure Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance.

The trio has recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/de-ville-manly-11-victoria-parade-manly-nsw-2095">De Ville</a>, a new luxury project on a long-dormant yet prime site at 9–11 Victoria Parade, positioned between East Esplanade and South Steyne.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2639bb1-d72c-4f28-b4dc-33190655e147" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-12%20at%209.38.37%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=orUAk2m2tTKAAasLvZg0IaGQyDaZcKYI" />

The site was originally earmarked for a 26-apartment scheme, but following its $25 million acquisition of the near-1,200 sqm parcel, the development team opted for a more refined approach, reducing the yield to just 12 two- and three-bedroom residences across a six-level building.

Among them will be three full-floor penthouses boasting panoramic views across Manly Beach, North Harbour, and the city skyline. The apartments will sit above four ground-floor retail and commercial tenancies, designed to help activate Victoria Parade, an area long defined by its beachside character and interwar brick architecture.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6922f4a-21fb-4a07-8e40-241d594c2538" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/int3.jpg?VersionId=7U1Qw79_YT3bOZKr7.H03JHOFm3QVYlE" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a>, De Ville’s sculpted form takes cues from the ebb and flow of Manly’s dual waterfronts, the ocean to one side and the harbour to the other.&nbsp;

The architecture’s soft curvature and rhythmic vertical brickwork reflect the natural patterns of the tide, while a refined palette of Lohas brick, sandy render and glass detailing allows the building to harmonise with its coastal context.&nbsp; Cascading greenery and deep balconies bring texture and shadow to the facade, reinforcing the building’s connection to nature and the street.

Buyers have a choice of two different colour palettes, Taj Mahal and Brescia Green, each layering soft tones and organic finishes to capture the coastal light.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be78b114-88ed-4d33-a4ef-50e14d2f9064" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/int6a.jpg?VersionId=hBrZPvs1L2LwThSatcNMXTg0tltfEn4a" />

De Ville is the first development in Manly to fully protect its buyers with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance offered by Resilience Insurance.

The policy covers buyers for 10-years post-completion of the building, a first-resort cover again&nbsp;major structural or waterproofing defects.&nbsp;

Unlike traditional statutory warranties, which often require complex and lengthy claims processes, LDI ensures that if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds immediately - without the need to prove fault or pursue the builder or developer.

This new model of protection has been gaining traction among forward-thinking developers and financiers alike. For buyers, it offers tangible assurance of quality and accountability; for lenders and insurers, it reflects a measurable reduction in long-term risk.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/what-is-latent-defects-insurance-and-is-it-bringing-confidence-to-the-off-the-plan-apartment-market">What is Latent Defects Insurance and is it bringing confidence to the off the plan apartment market?</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151559]

Equicentia launches Manly's first new development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Watpac

<html><body>
Mary Lane is a stunning landmark building in the centre of Brisbane, where you can meet, dine, stay, live and play!

The articulated glass exterior is a sculptural statement, adding to the Brisbane skyline and for residents, provides a superior luxury living in the heart of the vibrant lifestyle.

From the private Residents-only foyer and lifts, to the Exclusive Residents-only Roof Terrace Pool, Gymnasium and function room, Mary Lane is 5-Star living.

Being positioned above The Westin Brisbane provides effortless connection to a variety of 5-star amenities, while still enjoying the privacy of a separate lobby and secured lift access to your residence and the exclusive rooftop facilities.

Mary Lane is centrally located on the axis of Eagle Street Pier, the Botanic Gardens, the Casino and Queen’s Wharf development – perfectly placed to become the pulse of Brisbane’s dynamic new entertainment hub.

Rising 37 levels above Brisbane’s newest luxury hotel, The Westin Brisbane, Mary Lane’s 1, 2 and 3 bedroom residences and 4 bedroom luxurious Penthouses offer high ceilings, expansive glazing to deliver generous light-filled spaces and dedicated storage room on the same floor level.

Being positioned above The Westin Brisbane provides effortless connection to a variety of 5-star amenities, while still enjoying the privacy of a separate lobby and secured lift access to your residence and the exclusive rooftop facilities.

Mary Lane’s elegant features, flawless finishes and ability to capture breathtaking views makes it a desirable haven to escape to. Rising 37 levels above Brisbane’s newest luxury hotel, The Westin Brisbane, Mary Lane’s 1, 2 and 3 bedroom residences and 4 bedroom luxurious Penthouses offer high ceilings, expansive glazing to deliver generous light-filled spaces and dedicated storage room on the same floor level.
</body></html>

Patrica

Ready to move in! Live, meet, dine and play at Brisbane’s newest landmark building, Mary Lane

<html><body>
Country Garden Australia’s first project, ‘Ryde Garden’, in Sydney’s North Ryde, has officially reached completion, with the company stating Ryde Garden's completion represents a very important milestone for the company. The $580m residential development comprises 830 apartments across three high-rise towers of 12 to 28 storeys, situated on a 17,580 sqm site within the North Ryde Station Urban Activation Zone. 

Construction of Ryde Garden commenced in May 2016 with <a href="/developments?builder=Watpac">Watpac</a> delivering the expansive <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>-designed development, with buyers now moving into the first of three towers, with settlement of the other two towers also recently announced. Ryde Garden will ultimately become home to around 2,500 residents, who will enjoy uninterrupted views encompassing the city and the surroundings.

The development is set around a central landscaped 4,000 sqm park designed by Aspect Studios also designed the landscaped rooftop gardens which come complete with BBQ’s. Further resident amenity has been provided by way of parking for 730 cars and 336 bikes, a private 30-metre lap pool, gymnasium, childcare facility, street level retail and concierge.

Ryde Garden is also conveniently located in close proximity to Macquarie Centre, restaurants, cinemas and other lifestyle facilities and well served by the North Ryde (underground) Station connecting the development to Macquarie University and Chatswood.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/ryde_garden_0252.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The development is centred around a 4,000 sqm park. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ryde_garden_0252.jpg?itok=nrPWNZE2" title="The development is centred around a 4,000 sqm park. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The development is centred around a 4,000 sqm park. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Ryde Garden is a fine example of Watpac’s expertise in delivering multi-use developments and we’re pleased to have been able to bring this project to life for Country Garden Australia. The construction process required disciplined project management capabilities, given at its peak 550 workers were working on site each day, contributing to a monthly turnover of around $21 million.

The complexities of building three towers in a two and half year period required meticulous planning and engagement, and I congratulate the Watpac project team for their efforts and commitment to delivering an outstanding development for Country Garden Australia. Country Garden Australia envisioned a precinct that would be enjoyed by residents and the local community alike, and I congratulate them on achieving this.

We’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with their team and thank them for entrusting Watpac with their first project in the country. We look forward to continuing this relationship into the future and hope there are many more projects together to follow.

- Martin Monro, Watpac Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
It’s incredibly exciting to see a labour of love come to fruition after a lot of hard work from our internal team and all of our project stakeholders. We are extremely proud of this project, especially given it’s our first in Australia.  It’s proof of our capabilities in delivering masterplanned communities that locals are proud to call home.

It’s also testament to our versatility and capacity to deliver across various asset classes, as we are better known for large-scale house and land communities featuring major infrastructure and amenity, such as our ‘Windermere’ project outside Melbourne, which has just commenced site works.

We are really looking forward to the Ryde Garden community developing as all three towers become inhabited.  For us, it’s not just about building houses, but more about developing engaging communities... that’s why we build.

- Dr Guotao Hu, CEO of Country Garden Australia
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Watpac delivers Country Garden Australia’s first project

<html><body>
Earlier this week Watpac announced that it was successful in winning a $110 million contract to design and build the new Deakin Law School building at the Burwood Campus.

The nine level building, designed by Woods Bagot will comprise 20,000 sqm of teaching and learning spaces, student support and wellbeing spaces, staff workspaces and basement car parking.

The Law School building will provide a hub for meeting, learning, networking, student wellbeing and student services that caters to the needs of next generation learners beyond the classroom. This holistic approach is intended to create a vibrant and engaging interactive campus for students.

Additionally, other innovative features have been incorporated into the design with spaces that facilitate and encourage interactive modern learning and enhance the overall student experience.

Principles of environmentally sustainable design have also been embedded within the design including;

<ul>
<li> Rooftop solar panels</li>
	<li>High efficiency HVAC and lifts</li>
	<li>Rainwater harvesting</li>
	<li>Glare control systems </li>
	<li>Connection to end-of-trip facilities.</li>
</ul>
According to Watpac, the company is looking forward to delivering its first project for Deakin University, while this continues Woods Bagot's relationship with the University at its Burwood Campus. The firm has previously designed the Burwood Highway Frontage Building which accommodates the Faculty of Health, and Deakin University Building I which connects two existing theatres and provides internal and external gathering spaces for students. 
 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/a-lc-entry_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Deakin's new Law School Building designed by Woods Bagot. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="504" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/a-lc-entry_view.jpg?itok=CYa8oh-2" title="Deakin's new Law School Building designed by Woods Bagot. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Deakin's new Law School Building designed by Woods Bagot. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>The contract builds on Watpac's national pipeline of projects which includes specialised university buildings including Port Macquarie’s Charles Sturt University Campus and the University of New South Wales Joint Health Education Facility.

Watpac anticipates site works to commence on the Law School building by the end of the month, and says its project team is well-placed to deliver a leading education facility for Deakin University.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Watpac understands the specific requirements of creating modern learning environments that embrace the changing way students engage with learning and we are excited to work with our new client in delivering this innovative building.

The Group has the desirable combination of education sector and sustainability experience having delivered almost $1 billion of education infrastructure since 2016 underpinned by our commitment to environmentally sustainable design and building practices.

- Martin Monro, Watpac Limited Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Thanks to our integrated approach to design and construction, and our diverse experience in the education sector, this state-of-the-art facility will provide Deakin with an exceptional learning space for years to come.

We anticipate peak workforce numbers to reach 230 people and estimate the project will be completed by mid-2020.

- Nick Pavlovic, Watpac Construction Victoria State Manager  
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Watpac wins first contract for Deakin University

<html><body>
JSK Group recently celebrated the 'topping out' of its Union Tower residential project at 296-300 Little Lonsdale Street at a ceremony attended by its project partners PDS Group, Watpac and RotheLowman.

The $45m project which comprises 165 apartments across 35 levels and has been designed by architects RotheLowman, represents JSK Group's first Australian development.

In light of the project's success, JSK Group plans to accelerate its investment into the Australian property market by expanding its portfolio nationally. According to JSK Group this is in response to growing demand from buyers from Asia, who are increasingly shifting their focus away from European markets to Australian shores.

The development posed a number of logistical challenges for the project team, not least of which is the 400 sqm site's constrained footprint impacting on the ability to access to the site for the delivery and transport of materials, and mobility of construction vehicles and machinery within a busy city environment.

With the topping out ceremony done and dusted project manager PDS Group's attention turns towards the pending completion of construction and settling the apartments, which are now 100% sold.

Union Tower joins the nearby 399 Little Lonsdale Street, which is nearing completion and will inject 478 3 and 4 star hotel rooms for Ibis and Novotel respectively, into an area that has seen intense development activity over the last 5 years.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/39551656161_2a2a6241d1_k.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Union Tower has topped out with installation of facade progressing. Image: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/39551656161_2a2a6241d1_k.jpg?itok=coGjAlLS" title="Union Tower has topped out with installation of facade progressing. Image: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Union Tower has topped out with installation of facade progressing. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Union Tower has been fantastic. It’s going well. We pretty much sold out in the first two to three months of commencing our sales campaign, and construction is on track.  The building is looking great, and we are delighted to have marked our first topping out with our team of local consultants.

We will be investing more resources into the Australian market, as we feel Europe is unstable due to Brexit and, accordingly, has seen a reduction in pricing for apartments in London. Prices, of course, are still very expensive because of the limited space in London however we tend to find that our buyers, especially from Asia, are shifting their focus away from Europe and returning to Australia and Asia. So that is where we will focus our resources into 2018.

We have built houses, townhouses and apartments in Malaysia and in China, however this will be the first time we have ventured into townhouses and houses in Australia.  We are looking forward to offering a new range of products

- Sean Wong, JSK Melbourne based Director
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Meeting complex challenges and delivering innovative outcomes for our clients is a skill our dedicated team bring to every project, and Union Tower has been no exception. I commend the Watpac team for their ability to reach this milestone on schedule, while successfully managing the physical and logistical challenges presented by working in a constrained inner-city site.

Now that the structure is complete, we look forward to continuing our high standard of work to deliver this exceptional project for JSK Group later this year.

- Nick Pavlovic, Watpac Construction Victorian State Manager
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Working with JSK Group on its first Australian development has been very successful for both of companies.  A strong working relationship has delivered a successful project. Union Tower is an elegant glass building designed in the round and delivers high quality apartments, many of which are corner located. We look forward to completing the project now that structural top out has been successfully achieved on time by Watpac.

- Shane Rothe, Founding Principal RotheLowman
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Union Tower the latest project to top out

<html><body>
Builders signage across a quartet of sites has heralded the commencement of a new wave of construction that will create 900 new dwellings.

The four separate projects are headlined by <a href="/buildings/st-boulevard-601-st-kilda-road-melbourne">601 St Kilda Road</a> which has just seen Icon signage made prominent across the site. 601 St Kilda Road was a low-rise commercial complex, but it is quickly making way so that Icon can deliver 400 plus apartments over three separate buildings.

Dubbed St. Boulevard and Magnolia, the towers onsite will be separated by a green communal space. 2,000 plus square metres of amenity also includes an outdoor pool, health club/gym, heated spa and sauna, dining area, outdoor BBQ pods, lounges and bathing pavilions.

The Elenberg Fraser-designed trio of buildings adds to St Kilda Road's seemingly endless flow of large-scale apartment projects.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image6_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_18.jpg?itok=kAZL6Ik6" title="St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Although announced last year, Watpac is only now ready to advance on Stage 2 works, being the main building fronting 619 St Kilda Road.

With demolition all but complete, works will begin on the delivery of a new nine-storey building for Jewish Care Victoria. Watpac value the building contract for the multi-phase development at $73 million.

The Senior Living and Community Precinct includes construction of 156 residential units, health care, and medical services above basement car parking. An art gallery, community service centre, training rooms, function spaces, family lounges, winter gardens and indoor/outdoor terraces round out the smith + tracey architects-designed project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/final_exterior-926-800-600-80.png" rel="gallery-all" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image: Jewish Care"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/final_exterior-926-800-600-80.png?itok=RKFiwWKS" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image: Jewish Care" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An early render of 619 St Kilda Road. Image: Jewish Care</figcaption></figure>Verve Constructions has fresh signage up across 33-35 Hall Street in Moonee Ponds.

The builder has taken on the 14-storey tower after the project had stumbled at the first attempt; S.W.A.T Building initially had the job but the site had laid dormant for some 14 months after their appointment. Marketed as Central 35, the development includes near on 70 apartments and three ground-level retail spaces.

The appointment of Verve Constructions will no doubt hearten buyers within the project that is running well behind schedule.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image238.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="688" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image238.jpg?itok=ch7Hjtbi" title="33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio</figcaption></figure>Hacer signage is also due at 127-139 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick.

The builder has snared the first stage of <a href="/buildings/east-brunswick-village-3-bluestone-way-brunswick-east">East Brunswick Village</a>, developer Banco Group's latest multi-residential project. With earthworks active across the massive site for in excess of 12 months, Hacer now has a target completion date of late 2019.

As part of the first stage, Hacer will create 223 new apartments within an 18,000 square metre building. A Coles supermarket, Liquorland and four additional retail tenancies are located above two basement levels.

East Brunswick Village has been designed by JAM Architects.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1419_ebv-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1419_ebv-2.jpg?itok=mPz9WdhN" title="East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Watpac

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Watpac

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.